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Post by barbt on Jun 14, 2015 12:00:45 GMT -5
Go for it, Rea! And I still think Ryan would let himself die rather than feed off Rea.
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Post by onyxfyrefly on Jun 15, 2015 7:31:56 GMT -5
Dominic spat out a word and the field separating them was filled with dark smoke. Before the smoke could reach her Rea held out her left hand and shook her shield bracelet free. “Ventas” she whispered while merging her magic with that of the bracelet. The smoke Dominic had summoned stopped as if it had hit a wall and began to rise.
The moment that the spell was cast Rea began to move, using the smoke as her cover. She rushed as quietly as possible around the field until she was standing behind Dominic. Raising her staff she swung it hard but the dark mage somehow sensed her and turned at the last moment. Rea still manged to connect and Dominic fell to the ground, the smoke he had summoned slowly dissipating.
The witch quickly put some space between them but fell to the ground when her feet were yanked out from underneath her. She turned and sat up to see a thick rope of smoke wrapped around her ankles. “Ignis,” she hissed while bringing her staff down on top of the smoke. The rope melted away and she heard Dominic swear in pain.
As she scrambled to her feet she realized that he was pouring his own will into the smoke and using it as an extension of himself. It was clever but also dangerous because any damage she did to the smoke would damage the mage as well.
Rea didn’t have a lot of time to process this knowledge. Her extended senses sent her diving to the ground as bolt of lighting slammed into the stone directly behind her. She could feel the first drops of rain splash against her skin and knew that the storm had arrived. The time for throwing taunts and insults had passed, she either had to fight or die.
Instead of coming to her feet she pressed her right hand into the ground and felt the stores of power that had accumulated over the centuries. Dominic wasn’t the only one who could draw power from another source but instead of relying on the deadly power of the storm Rea was going to use something a bit more reliable.
A glance at Dominic showed the mage with one hand reaching towards the sky while the other was extended towards her. “Revenir,” said Rea while focusing on the ground at his feet. She drew quite a bit of power in and felt it release in a rush as the ground suddenly opened beneath Dominic and swallowed him up to his waist.
The spell he had been preparing went astray and the sky was illuminated with the blast that had been meant for Rea. Drawing more energy from the earth, Rea searched for any type of life that existed on top of the mound. It didn’t take long for her to find exactly what she was looking for. “Vida grande,” she whispered. A slithering sound filled the air as dozens of vines that covered the stones suddenly sprag to life and began to grow. The raced across the ground and began to wind around Dominic who was struggling to free himself.
Rea slowly pushed herself up and paused when a sound caught her attention. She turned and felt her stomach clench when she saw Ryan. The energy from the battle had roused him and he struggled against his bonds, the beast inside of him craving for a taste.
The witch spared a glance at her adversary who looked more like a topiary at the moment then rushed to Ryan’s side. She was careful not to touch him as she knelt next to him. “Ryan, listen to me. Don’t fight. You’re going to hurt yourself more if you struggle.”
“Rea...please, I can’t stand it. It hurts.”
“I know it hurts but the more you struggle the more pain you’ll be in.”
“The beast...it wants out. Oh god it hurts. Make it stop, please,” the vampire begged. He opened his eyes and Rea swallowed hard. They were completely black and she could feel herself falling into them.
She shook her head to clear it and looked at a spot over his shoulder. “I can’t.” Before she could say another word an explosion rocked the mound and knocked Rea onto her back. She quickly rolled and covered her head as pieces of earth rained down onto her.
Coming to her feet she saw the crater where Dominic had been imprisoned but so sign of the dark mage. “Rea!” Ryan screamed and that was all of the warning she had before her head exploded in pain. She turned away from the blow but the force sent her to her knees.
“I wasn’t a fan of your methods but I must admit that they’re most effective,” sneered Dominic while tossing the rock to the side.
Rea scrambled away on her hands and knees, trying to will the world into focus once more. She reached out and felt one of the large stones in front of her. The buzz of power was comforting as she hauled herself to her feet. The world was still spinning but her senses warned her when she felt the massive surge of energy hurtling across the field.
The witch held out her left hand and formed a shield around herself as the spell slammed into her like an oncoming train. The wind was knocked out of her lungs as she was forced back against the stone. She poured her will into the shield but could feel Dominic’s spell pressing against her.
The dark mage was using the storm to feed the spell and the circle of stones to focus it. Rea was strong but her concentration was shot. If she took her focus away from the shield even for a moment she would be crushed like a bug on a windshield.
Of course that could be a distinct possibility anyway. Her shield bracelet glowed a bright blue in the darkness but it was being pushed to its limits. She could feel the heat of the bracelet began to sting and she knew that eventually it would melt, taking most of the skin on her wrist and hand with it.
Without letting go of the focus on her bracelet, Rea took a deep breath and punched her shield, igniting the power stored in the rings of her right hand. Again and again she punched, using the stored power to counter the spell. For a few moments it seemed to work, Dominic’s spell was forced back nearly halfway across the field but before she could ready another punch the mage retaliated.
Rea felt her teeth rattle in her skull and felt something inside her torso shatter like glass as she flew across the field and slammed against the stone once more. It took all of her power to focus and hold onto the shield as the world swam around her. Tapping into the power of the talisman at her throat her shield began to glow blood red. Over the raging storm she heard Dominic’s sick laughter and felt her stomach twist. It was over. Her wrist was burning and she knew that she couldn’t hold out any longer. There was no way that her magic could overcome the staggering power of the storm. With a ragged breath she steadied herself, getting ready to unleash her death curse.
Every witch and wizard possessed a death curse, a spell that was locked deep within and could only be released when they had met their end. It was an extremely powerful spell which unleashed every ounce of power that the practitioner possessed. It was how her parents had cast their immortality spell and Rea knew that the death curse would kill Dominic without a doubt. Unfortunately it would also kill Ryan but at the moment she was out of options.
Rea closed her eyes and counted down from ten, drawing in her focus as she did so. Before she finished the countdown a deep growl reached her ears and Dominic suddenly yelped in pain.
Letting her shield fall, Rea slid to the ground. She took a moment to try and catch her breath, feeling the cool rain soothe her burned wrist. She knew she should get up, Dominic would be coming for her, but she just wanted to rest for another minute.
A smell caught her senses and her nose wrinkled in disgust. Why did it suddenly smell like wet dog? Blinking open her eyes she saw a massive wolf standing over her. The wolf turned and his bright blue eyes were illuminated by a flash of lightening.
“Colm?”
The wolf nodded and turned towards the center of the circle where Emmett and Keith were taking on Dominic. The two worked well together, one would draw Dominic’s attention while the other would attack. It was obvious that the mage usually fought with magic because the physical assault threw him off guard.
Rea knew that it was only a matter of time before Dominic found a weak spot and she had to be ready. The distraction that the two were causing was going to be her only chance at gaining an advantage.
Using the stone behind her Rea tried to stand and sat back down with a hiss, there was something very wrong with her knee. It felt like there was gravel grinding against the joints. She wasn’t much of a healer but over the years she had learned a thing or two about battlefield injuries. Placing her hands on either side of her knee she drew in her will and whispered “san doule”. The relief was immediate as the pain disappeared. She hadn’t healed the wound, only tricked her body into not feeling the pain.
Colm nudged her with his head and she wrapped an arm around the broad shoulders, allowing the wolf to help her to her feet. It took a few moments for her to catch her breath and she forced herself not to panic when she realized that she couldn’t. She knew that she was badly injured, possibly even mortally, but there wasn’t time to dwell on it. The spell that she had used on her knee wouldn’t help, it would numb her lungs and diaphragm and she would suffocate. All that she could do was push the pain to the side and pray that she could stay conscious long enough to take down Dominic.
One of the wolves yelped in pain but Rea ignored it as she leaned against Colm. Dominic was too distracted with Emmett and Keith to control the power of the circle of stones and Rea planned on claiming that power as her own. As she turned a touch to her arm made her gasp and she wrapped an arm around her torso as her body was flooded with pain.
“Christ, Rea, what happened?” asked Neil.
“I’m fine. Colm, go help the others. We’re running out of time.”
The wolf nodded and loped across the field, his teeth bared. Rea watched him go then turned towards Neil. “I don’t have time to explain but I need your help. I have to get to each of the stones before Dominic realizes what I’m doing.”
“Dominic?”
Rea shook her head. “Long story. Let’s go.”
As quickly as they could manage the two walked around the outside of the circle, pausing to allow Rea to touch each stone and infuse it with her will. There were thirteen stones and by the forth one it was obvious that Rea was in serious pain. Her face was ashen and when she coughed Neil could smell the blood on her breath.
Wordlessly Neil swung the woman into his arms and he knew she was in agony because she didn’t complain. They quickly made their way around the circle and the last stone they had to activate was the one Ryan was chained to. “I need to be in front of this stone so I’m inside the circle when it activates,” explained Rea.
Neil nodded and moved to stand next to Ryan, trying to ignore his companion’s current state. The vampire’s wrists, chest and arms bore ugly burns where he had struggled against the iron chains.
Rea paused then touched the stone, pouring a bit of her will into it and feeling the circle snap shut around them. Ryan practically howled and arched as if he had been touched by a live wire when his body recognized Rea’s power. It took everything that Rea had to ignore the painful cries as she turned her attention towards Dominic.
The three wolves were circling the mage and all four looked worse for the wear. The wolves were all bleeding and missing patches of fur here and there. They all walked with a slight limp and Keith couldn’t put any weight on his front paw at all. Blood ran from countless bites and slashes that covered Dominic’s body and one of his ears was missing.
Rea wanted to make a Mike Tyson joke but the cough that tore through her lungs made her vision blur with pain. She spat and ignored the copper taste of blood that filled her mouth.
“Put me down, it’s time to end this,” she said but Neil paused.
“Are you sure?”
The witch nodded and swayed as Neil placed her on the ground. “Be ready to grab Ryan and run.” The vampire gently squeezed her shoulder and nodded.
In the distance Dominic raised his hand and it was almost comical when he realized that he no longer possessed the power of the circle to focus his spell. His eyes widened when he saw Rea striding across the field towards him.
The witch pushed with her right hand and the three wolves went tumbling outside of the circle. The action knocked Dominic off of his feet and it became obvious that he was more seriously injured than Rea had first believed.
She quickly turned and muttered “zelde” while pointing her staff at the stone where Ryan was chained. A thin bolt of lightning shot down and turned the padlocks into a melted pile of slag. The vampire shook off the chains and drunkenly staggered to his feet. Before he could take a step Neil grabbed him and held him tightly. Rea pushed the two outside of the circle with her magic and turned back towards Dominic.
The dark mage struggled to his feet and even in the darkness Rea could see the fear in his eyes. “You’re going to kill me, aren’t you?” he asked.
“I don’t want to. I have wonderful memories of you, you were a good kid once.”
“Then just let me go.”
Rea shook her head. “I can’t. If you had just sought me out, just come to me then maybe we could have figured this mess out. But you killed innocent people, including my apprentice, just to get my attention. I can’t let that go.”
“Turn me over to your coven, let them decide. Please, Rea, don’t do this.”
Once upon a time Rea would have looked upon the man in pity. But that time was gone. She was dying, she could feel her life slip away with every heartbeat. For a second time seemed to slow down. She could see the three wolves pawing at the circle, trying to break down the invisible shield that separated them. On her other side was Ryan, nearly mad with pain and hunger, struggling wildly against Neil’s grasp.
She could also see the ball of energy that Dominic had been forming while pretending to plead for his life. The ball flew through the air towards her and with a thought Rea’s staff reappeared in her hands. She swung the staff like a bat and hit a home run.
The ball flew right back towards Dominic who didn’t have time to deflect it. It hit the mage in the center of his chest, knocking him off of his feet and slamming him into the stone behind him. “Vida anima,” Rea hissed and the vines she had called forth earlier sprang to life, surrounding Dominic and securing him firmly to the stone. The mage struggled but he had been weakened and the power Rea used was too strong.
The witch’s legs went weak and she leaned on her staff to support herself. This was it, she was done. She barely had any magic left and her body was failing her. Turning her face to the sky she felt the cool rain kiss her skin and allowed herself to enjoy the sensation for a moment. This last spell would probably kill her but the thought didn’t fill her with fear, it was time and there were worse places to die.
Taking a deep breath she reached upwards with her left hand and pointed her staff at Dominic with her right. She could feel the wild power of the storm all around her and told herself to focus. She drew in more and more power, letting it fill every inch of her. Her hair floated around her and sparked with static as she gathered even more power.
For a split second Rea didn’t see the Shadowman, she didn’t see Dominic, she saw Dom...the little boy she used to watch when his mother was busy at work, the little boy who was fascinated with her magic, the little boy who cried over the death of a pet frog. She wondered if she could save him, if she could turn him towards the light in the way that her mother saved her father. Then she saw the hatred flash through his eyes and knew that he was gone. Some souls could not be saved.
With a cry Rea unleased the spell, feeling the power course through her body. It was so powerful that it brought her off of her feet and she fought to control the magic. Dominic’s scream seemed like it was a million miles away but Rea didn’t let go, she held on until there was nothing left.
The witch collapsed to the ground like a rag doll, feeling the rain mix with her tears until everything around her faded to black.
As soon as Rea fell the magic surrounding the circle fell as well. The three wolves ran to her side, ignoring the charred corpse that was once the Shadowman. There was a rush of energy then Emmett reached out a trembling hand, desperately trying to find a pulse.
“Is she alive?” asked Keith while cradling his wrist close to his body.
“Barely but she’s fading fast.”
Before anyone could speak Neil’s voice pierced the air. “Guys, look out!”
The three turned to see Ryan racing across the field with Neil in pursuit. The vampire easily pushed the three werewolves to the side and dropped to his knees next to Rea’s body. By now Neil had caught up to him but a hand on his shoulder made him pause.
Ryan was shaking so hard they could hear his teeth rattle but when he reached for Rea his touch was gentle. It took every ounce of his self control to keep the beast at bay and it was a losing battle. He tucked her wet hair behind her ear and caressed her cheek. “She’s dying.”
“We have to get her out of here,” said Colm.
“It’s too late,” whispered Ryan.
“No it’s not,” argued the werewolf.
“She’s in so much pain. I could make it stop, I could make her stop hurting.”
“No,” said Emmett. “There’s still time.”
Ryan shook his head slightly. “She’ll die before we even get her to the car.”
“Isn’t there something we can do?” asked Neil.
“If there was something I could do don’t you think I would do it?” Ryan ran a hand through his hair and shook his head. “She can either die in pain or she can die in peace. Unless one of you can manage a miracle those are our only choices.” He gently took Rea’s hand in his own and felt the pulse in her wrist slow.
The members of the group all looked at each other hopelessly. They had all hoped that Blind Mag’s prediction was wrong but it seemed like Rea’s fate was coming true before their very eyes.
Finally Keith spoke up. “Ryan, Rea is your lover. She’s obviously someone that you care deeply about. I think you should make the final decision.”
One by one the others nodded. Ryan took a deep breath and closed his eyes. “I’d like to do this alone.”
Slowly the others walked away to give Ryan the privacy he desired. Rea had fallen on her side and Ryan lay down behind her, his arm carefully circling her waist. He found her hand and threaded his fingers with hers. For a moment he allowed himself to imagine that they were curled together in his bed not in the mud in the middle of a rainstorm.
“Rea, I don’t know if you can hear me but...I love you.”
Swallowing back tears Ryan closed his eyes and called upon his power.
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Post by barbt on Jun 15, 2015 11:16:28 GMT -5
What a gift.
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Post by onyxfyrefly on Jun 16, 2015 7:28:05 GMT -5
It was quiet.
Rea slowly turned in a circle with a frown.
The space she inhabited was bare. Not dark, not light...just empty.
“What is this place?” she asked.
“Between.”
The voice made her turn and her eyes widened. “Mama?”
A woman began to appear before Rea’s eyes. Her eyes and skin were dark and a bright scarf held a fall of braids away from her face. “It’s good to see you, child.”
“How are you here? How am I here? Where are we?”
The woman smiled. “Always with so many questions.” She gently caressed Rea’s face and the witch closed her eyes at the familiar touch. “As I said before, we are in between worlds. A place between life and death, between one breath and the next...a place where you must make a choice.”
“What kind of choice?”
“Whether to stay or to go.” The deep voice made Rea turn.
“Papa!”
The older man smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. “Good to see you, amore.”
Rea crossed the space and hugged her father tightly. “I missed you. I missed you both so much.”
“We missed you too. There is so much that we wanted to teach you, to tell you but there wasn’t enough time.” Rea’s mother crossed the space and joined the embrace. The family stood together holding each other for what seemed like forever but for Rea it wasn’t long enough.
“How are you here?” asked the witch.
“Magic, of course,” replied her father. “Nothing is impossible when you put your mind to it.”
The group stood together in silence, enjoying the fact that they were together once more. “You said I had to make a choice,” said Rea after reluctantly pulling back.
Her mother nodded. “Rea, you’re dying.”
“What?” Rea shook her head as she tried to remember. The battle came back to her in flashes, she felt the pain of her injuries and the final surge of energy as she drew from the power of the storm. Then there was nothing.
“Your body was severely injured and you drained away nearly all of your magic. Your spirit still lives but now you have to chose to stay here or to go back,” said her father.
“How can I be here? Does everyone get a choice like this when they die? Did you have a choice?”
Rea’s mother shook her head. “No, not everyone gets a choice. My love, if we could have stayed with you we would have.” The older woman took Rea’s hands in her own. “You always stirred things up no matter where you went and this was no exception. When you and Dominic fought your powers awakened spirits that had been dormant for centuries. They’re called the Watchers. They once guarded the land and protected the hostages that were exchanged in order to prevent treachery. They have a power that I have never seen before. The Watchers can heal your body, they can make you whole again but only if you choose to do so.”
“What if I don’t want to go back?”
“Then you move on,” said Rea’s father.
“What’s it like?” she asked?
The warlock smiled at his daughter, in his eyes she was still a curious little girl. “It’s perfect. There’s no pain, no enemies, no fighting.”
“Is there magic?”
The man chuckled. “Yes, there’s magic but only white magic. Any darkness is immediately banished. No one can harm you there.”
Rea glanced back and forth between her parents. “Does it hurt?”
“Does what hurt, baby?” asked her mother.
“Letting go.”
The priestess wrapped an arm around her daughter’s shoulders. “Yes and no. Physically it’s painless. It’s just like falling asleep. But I won’t lie to you, it’s emotionally agonizing. You have to let go of everyone you’ve ever formed a bond with...everyone that you’ve ever loved. You don’t get a chance to tell them goodbye or to tell them how you feel, it’s just over. Depending on the strength of the connection you can sometimes feel it break and that in itself is torture.”
“Is that how it felt when you left me?”
“Yes. It was like someone was ripping my heart into a million tiny pieces.”
Rea shook her head and ran a hand through her hair. “I don’t know what to do. I’m so tired of fighting and running and just...existing. I’m so tired.”
“I know you are, my dear,” said her father. He squeezed her shoulder gently. “Can I ask you a question?” Rea nodded. “Do you love him?”
Rea sighed. “I don’t know.”
“He loves you,” said her mother.
“I know,” replied the witch. “I would never give up paradise just for one person, no matter how much they loved me. You know that.”
Her mother smiled slightly. “I know you wouldn’t.” The woman looked at her daughter’s conflicted face and felt her heart tighten. “I can’t make this decision for you but perhaps I can help.” The priestess waved her hand and two images appeared. The one on the right showed a landscape bathed in sunlight, birds sang and wildflowers bobbed in the breeze. Rea could practically feel the warm air caress her skin and she knew that the air would be pure and clear. In her heart she knew that is what peace looked like, it was something she had longed for for her entire life yet never achieved.
The image on the right showed the aftermath of the battle. The three wolves and Neil stood to the side nursing their injuries while Dominic’s charred corpse began to disintegrate in the background. Rea was shocked to see herself in Ryan’s arms. Her body was limp and lifeless, her skin was pale and her lips were turning blue. The vampire held her as if she was made of glass and even in the rain she could see the tears running down his face.
Standing between her parents she took their hands in her own. She looked between the two images and felt her parents hold her close.
“Our time is short,” said her father. “You must choose.”
Rea looked between the two scenes and felt her chest tighten. On one side was a life of purity, of magic, of love and an eternity with the family that had been stolen from her. On the other side was a life of pain and uncertainty and danger and the knowledge of her family’s fate weighing on her with every heartbeat.
With a shaky breath she closed her eyes and made her choice.
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Post by barbt on Jun 16, 2015 15:07:22 GMT -5
I really hope she chose Ryan...
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Post by onyxfyrefly on Jun 18, 2015 21:57:12 GMT -5
Blood Moon - Final Chapter(s)
I couldn't decide how to end this. When I wrote this for another site half of the people asked for a happy ending while others wanted one with a darker twist. After awhile I decided to write both. For the happier ending read Part A. For the darker ending read Part B.
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Post by onyxfyrefly on Jun 18, 2015 22:04:32 GMT -5
Part A
It doesn’t rain often in New Orleans but it seemed appropriate that it was raining today. Ryan wasn’t a fan of the rain but after everything that had transpired over the past few weeks he welcomed it. It was as if mother nature was wiping the slate clean and cleansing away all of the pain and evil that tarnished his life as of late.
He let out a sigh and tightened his arm around Rea, smiling when the witch let her head rest on his shoulder. Looking out at the rain-soaked streets Ryan let his thoughts wander back to the events of the past few days.
After the battle with the Shadowman Ryan knew that Rea’s time had come. He could feel her body screaming in pain and the agony was too much for him to bear. He knew he couldn’t save her but at least he could make her last moments as painless as possible.
Typically when Ryan fed there was a rush, a euphoria that flooded his body but this time was different. It was as if the beast inside was reluctant to feed. He forced himself to slowly absorb Rea’s essence, easing her pain as each heartbeat brought her closer to death.
Finally only one tiny spark remained. Ryan paused, praying that somehow there would be a miracle and she would fight her way back from the edge of death. After a long moment Ryan knew that the time had come and he swallowed back tears as he reached for that last spark. His eyes flew open in surprise when he felt something blocking his way. Time and again he reached for the last of Rea’s life force and each time he was rebuked. It was if something was guarding that last bit of life within the witch.
His cry brought the others running and they listened in confusion as Ryan explained his dilemma. “I can’t do it, I can’t take this last bit of her life force.”
“Ryan, I know this is hard for you but...” started Colm but the vampire cut him off.
“It’s not like that. I actually cannot reach that last spark, it’s like it’s being guarded.”
“Let me try,” said Neil. He pointedly ignored the murderous look in Ryan’s eyes as he let his power rise to the surface. Reaching towards Rea’s life source his dark eyes widened as he encountered the same barrier that Ryan had faced. “He’s right, there’s something blocking the way.”
“What do we do now?” asked Emmett. “We can’t take her to a hospital, all of the equipment would just fry once she got near it.” “I know a few healers that have worked with the pack before. If she can survive the trip into the city maybe she can make it,” said Keith.
The others nodded but before anyone could move something strange made them freeze. All across the field small, white orbs of light began to appear until the entire area was bathed in their warm glow. The orbs began to slowly make their way towards Rea and the five warriors could feel their energy as they approached.
Ryan gently placed Rea’s nearly dead body on the ground and stood with the others, ready to defend her if necessary. The orbs began to twist and weave their way through the air around Rea, dipping into the ground below her but never quite touching her.
To the group’s amazement the witch suddenly began to rise, floating a foot or so above the ground as the orbs spun faster and faster. Now they were passing through her body as if it was made of air, the magic making her hair snap and pop like live wires.
Faster and faster the orbs moved until it seemed like Rea was wrapped in a cocoon of pure white light. There was a final flash that made everyone turn their heads away and when they looked back Rea was lying on the ground once more.
“What in the world was that?” exclaimed Colm.
Ryan ignored him and dropped to his knees at Rea’s side. He closed his eyes and extended his senses, desperately searching for the tiny spark that had kept her tethered to this world. To his surprise he didn’t feel a tiny spark, instead he felt a flood of power racing through her veins.
“What is it? Is she alive?” asked Emmett.
For several moments Ryan couldn’t find his voice. “Yes, she’s alive and...and she’s healed.”
What?”
“How is that possible?”
“Are you sure?”
Ryan answered all of their questions with a nod. “Trust me, this isn’t wishful thinking. I don’t know how but she’s healed and her magic has been restored as well.”
“What were those things?” asked Neil.
“I have no idea,” said Keith. “But let’s get out of here. Rea may be healed but some of us still need a visit from the healers.”
Despite his weakness Ryan carried Rea back to the car and would not relinquish his hold on her until the healers arrived.
“Go clean up and then go and feed,” said a healer with warm brown eyes. “If anything changes we will call you.”
Ryan was reluctant to leave but he knew that if he didn’t feed he could possibly hurt Rea in her weakened state. He and Neil went out hunting together while Colm, Keith, and Emmett were tended to by the three healers.
It was the fastest hunting session they’d ever participated in and when the two vampires arrived back at the house everyone’s wounds had been tended too. Rea had been cleaned up by the healers and was resting in one of the guest rooms.
Ryan pulled up a chair and took her hand in his, ready to wait as long as necessary for her eyes to open. Imagine his surprise when not thirty minutes later she began to stir.
Rea glanced around the room once and closed her eyes again. “I feel like Dorothy.”
Ryan jumped at the sound of her voice. “Rea! You’re awake!”
“Yes, I’m awake and I feel like Dorothy.”
“Who?” asked Ryan with a frown.
“Dorothy...you know...the Wizard of OZ.”
“I swear...you say the strangest things,” said Keith.
“Oh shut up, Toto.” The group laughed and Rea rolled onto her side, the smile leaving her face. “He’s dead, isn’t he.”
The attitude in the room instantly changed. “Yes,” said Neil after a long silence. “He’s dead.”
“I didn’t want to kill him,” Rea said, her voice nearly a whisper.
“I know you didn’t,” Ryan smoothed her hair back. “But you did what had to be done.”
Rea shrugged and fell silent once more. No one said a word for a long time but eventually Emmett spoke up. “Okay, someone has to talk about the pink elephant in the room. How are you here? You were dying, we could all see it, then these strange lights showed up and somehow healed you. I know you’re powerful but that’s impossible, even for someone like you.”
“They were there, they told me I had to make a choice. I had to decided whether to come back or to move on.”
“Okay, now you’re starting to sound like Dorothy. What are you talking about?” asked Colm.
Rea quickly summed up her meeting with her parents, the power of The Watchers, and the choice she was given. “And in the end I chose to come back.”
“Why?” asked Keith. “It’s not that we’re not thrilled that you’re alive but you gave up paradise for this?”
The witch nodded and slowly sat up. She pulled her knees to her chest as she attempted to explain her decision. “I didn’t give up anything. Paradise or heaven or whatever it was will always be there. When the time comes for me to die I’ll be able to see that every day for eternity, I will be able to spend time with my family and with those that I’ve lost until the end of time. Not everyone gets the opportunity to come back and pick up where they left off and I didn’t want to throw that opportunity away. Life is too short and tomorrow isn’t promised. I’ll have eternity to enjoy paradise so I might as well enjoy this life while I can.”
The five members of the group were silent as they absorbed her words. “What is it like?” asked Neil.
“It’s perfect,” replied Rea.
One by one each warrior bid Rea a goodnight. The events of the day were still too fresh, the shock would hit later but for right now they all just wanted to sleep.
Eventually Rea and Ryan were alone together. The vampire sat down on the bed and pulled the witch into his arms. When he held her on the battlefield he thought that was the last time he’d ever get to feel her embrace and knew that this moment was a gift.
“Can I ask you something?” asked Rea, her question muffled in Ryan’s shoulder.
“Of course, anything.”
“Do you love me?”
Ryan leaned back to meet Rea’s unique eyes. He gently caressed her cheek and nodded. “Yes.”
“Why?”
The vampire smiled. “Because you’re you, that’s why.” He paused and licked his lips nervously. “Do you love me?”
Rea cocked her head to the side. “I think I do.” Ryan beamed and kissed her gently. “Now come on, we can be sappy later. For right now all I want to do is sleep.”
“That sounds like a fantastic idea,” agreed the vampire. The two settled down to sleep as dawn broke over the city, each one knowing that they had been granted a second chance.
Rea stayed in Dublin for two more days then headed back to New Orleans. Ryan asked to accompany her and the witch agreed with a smile. Once arriving home Rea introduced Ryan to her coven and filled them in on the events of the past few weeks. She left nothing out, revealing her immortality and describing her visit with her parents. To her surprise and relief no one turned on her or expressed any outrage, in fact they were honored that she’d shared such a sacred secret with them. They accepted Ryan as well claiming that if he had managed to snare Rea’s heart then he must be someone special.
At the moment the two were in Rea’s apartment above her shop, watching the raindrops chase each other down the glass. The rain had finally started to slow and steam began to rise from the sidewalks.
Rea stood and stretched before walking towards her closet. “Come on, let’s get something to eat.”
“Can’t we just stay in?”
The witch turned with her hands on her hips. “You’re in a city with some of the best food in the world and you want to order take out? What’s wrong with you?”
Ryan shrugged and grinned. “I don’t know, I’ve just heard some rather...interesting things about the food here.”
Rea laughed. “Trust me, it’s some of the best food you’ve ever tasted. Just don’t ask what’s in it.”
Ryan shook his head and wrapped his arms around Rea, pulling her in for a kiss. The two stayed locked in their embrace each one knowing how precious each moment was and not willing to waste a single second.
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Post by onyxfyrefly on Jun 18, 2015 22:14:08 GMT -5
Part B
It doesn’t rain often in New Orleans but it seemed appropriate that it was raining today. In fact, it had rained every day since their arrival from Ireland. Ryan sighed as he watched the drops race down the window pane. It seemed like mother nature herself was crying.
He wanted to cry too but he didn’t have any tears left. Closing his eyes he tried to push the memory of the past few days out of his mind.
After the battle with the Shadowman Ryan knew that Rea’s time had come. He could feel her body screaming in pain and the agony was too much for him to bear. He knew he couldn’t save her but at least he could make her last moments as painless as possible.
Typically when Ryan fed there was a rush, a euphoria that flooded his body but this time was different. It was as if the beast inside was reluctant to feed. He forced himself to slowly absorb Rea’s essence, easing her pain as each heartbeat brought her closer to death.
Finally only one tiny spark remained. Ryan paused, praying that somehow there would be a miracle and she would fight her way back from the edge of death. Unfortunately that miracle never came. Ryan swallowed against the sick feeling in the pit of his stomach and drew in the last of Rea’s power. He saw her final breath slip through her lips and turn to mist, slowly rising into the air until it was done.
Without realizing it a sob left the vampire’s mouth. He curled around Rea’s lifeless body, his tears turning to steam against her cold flesh. He wanted to apologize, he wanted to beg her to come back but his mouth couldn’t form the words. Finally he had nothing left. No more tears, no more cries...only pain.
When he finally raised red-rimmed eyes he saw the others standing in a rough circle around them. Each one had his head bowed in sorrow and respect.
Even though he was still weak he carried Rea’s body back to the car then to Colm’s house. Keith called to inform Rea’s coven of her death and to ready them for her arrival. With shaking hands Ryan cleaned and dressed Rea then loaded her onto the makeshift stretcher the others had constructed.
Under the cover of darkness the group headed into downtown Dublin and opened the Way that would lead them to New Orleans. Keith, who had a broken wrist and couldn’t carry much, lead the way with a light while the other four carried Rea’s body down the long tunnel.
It was a macabre sight, the five were still bruised and splattered with mud and blood from the battle. Yet they held their heads high as they acted as Rea’s pallbearers, carrying her home for the final time.
Three members of Rea’s coven were waiting for them when they arrived. It was late in New Orleans and the three women helped the weary group transport Rea’s body to a secure location.
Healers were called in and everyone’s wounds were tended to. The healers knew that there were wounds that they would not be able to heal so they attempted to do their job as quickly as possible and move on. The one gift they did bestow was an elixir that caused a dreamless sleep and the five weary warriors were extremely grateful. The last thing they needed was a night spent doing battle in their sleep.
The next day the coven sat with the group and listed in shock as they explained the battle between Rea and the Shadowman. Ryan was the only one who knew the full story and the entire group was floored when the details were revealed. It was agreed that Rea died a hero and the others were commended for their assistance. Even Ryan received praise, the members of the coven knew that he had been trying to ease Rea’s pain and appreciated his selfless assistance.
All of the gratitude and thanks fell on deaf ears. For the first time in centuries Ryan had found someone that he cared for, that he loved. He’d only known her for a few weeks but it felt like a lifetime. Now she was gone. Not only was she gone but he had been the one to kill her. Dominic had mortally wounded her but Ryan was the one that extinguished that final spark, he was the one that felt her die.
Despite the rain, Rea’s funeral was held in true New Orleans style. Instead of mourning their fallen comrade the members of Rea’s coven celebrated her life. A lively jazz band led the way as the street was filled with the members of the coven, Rea’s friends, and many bewildered yet highly entertained tourists.
Magic practically flowed through the streets that day as the practitioners within the funeral procession filled the air with spells. The spectators thought they were special effects but the locals knew the scent of magic and took a moment to bow their heads in respect when the group passed by.
Rea was put to rest in her family’s crypt. After her parents had been burned at the stake, members of the cover secreted the remains away and eventually entombed them in one of New Orleans’ famous above-ground cemeteries. Prayers and spells alike were said and when the heavy door was shut there was a since of finality in the ‘boom’ that resonated.
After the service a reception was held with music, food, and lots of laughter as Rea’s life continued to be celebrated. Ryan knew he should join the festivities, not wallow in his sorrow but at the moment he didn’t care.
He headed outside and began to walk, not knowing or caring where he ended up. The rain had slowed to a mere drizzle and he could see the steam rising from the streets. Eventually he stopped in front of a store. The windows were dark but the doorknob twisted beneath his hand. Ryan took a slow breath and after a beat he headed inside.
The moment that he stepped through the door he was hit with a scent that was uniquely Rea’s. There was always something about her, a scent that he could never place. Looking around Ryan’s stomach twisted when he saw the sign above the door. ‘LeBeau’s Spices & Teas’.
This was Rea’s shop.
Ryan wondered how sick his subconscious was to bring him here of all places. Despite his misgivings he slowly wandered around the shop, pausing to read a label or to smell a dried herb.
Everything in the shop reminded him of Rea. The empty coffee cup on the counter, the scarf thrown over the back of a chair, the books piled onto sagging shelves. There was no doubt that this shop was hers.
On the counter, next to the cash register, was a book that had been left open. The ace of spades was used to mark the page. Even though his heart was breaking into tinnier pieces by the moment, Ryan leaned across the counter to read the text.
‘To see a world in a grain of sand And a heaven in a wild flower Hold infinity in the palm of your hand And eternity in an hour’
“That’s always been my favorite poem.”
The voice made Ryan jump and his face paled. “Rea?”
“Who else would it be?”
Ryan rubbed his eyes and shook his head. “This is impossible. You’re dead. I...I killed you.”
The witch smiled sadly. “Yes, I am dead but you were not the one who killed me. Dominic did that. He shattered my ribs and caused them to puncture both of my lungs, I drowned in my own blood. On top of that several of my vertebrae were broken and my nerves were severely damaged. You helped ease the pain of my death but I would have died anyway.”
Ryan felt his head swim and leaned against the counter. “How are you here?”
“Magic of course.”
“Why are you here?”
The witch paused. “I wanted to say goodbye and also to say that I’m sorry.”
The vampire frowned. “Sorry for what?”
“I don’t have time to explain all of the details but as I was dying I was given a choice. There was a power that could have healed my body and brought me back or I could choose to move on. Obviously I chose the latter.”
“Why? Why didn’t you stay? Was it me? Was it something that I did?”
Rea shook her head. “It wasn’t you, you’re wonderful and caring and I’m so lucky that I did get to know you even though it was for such a short amount of time.”
“Then what was it?”
“It was my time.” The witch held up a hand to halt Ryan’s response. “When my parents cast that spell on me they did it so I could find their killer and bring them to justice. They had no idea that the one who betrayed them would be found in a matter of weeks. I should have aged like a normal witch and at this age I should have been old with waning powers. I should have been mentoring the next generation not going to the front lines to fight.” Rea sighed and crossed her arms over her abdomen. “I was so tired of fighting, I was so tired of...well...everything. My immortality was a curse.”
“And mine isn’t?” Ryan spat. “Do you think that I like what I have become? I didn’t have a choice either.”
“But you once told me that you’ve accepted your fate, that you were at peace with the hand you have been dealt. I was never at peace with my lot in life, each day was a burden not a gift. I know it sounds cowardly but I do not regret my choice.”
Ryan sighed and ran a hand through his hair. “It’s not fair. I love you.”
“I know. You have no idea how hard it was to leave you. I miss you.”
The vampire swallowed past the lump in his throat. “I miss you too. What am I supposed to do, Rea? I’m immortal, I could live for centuries and each day I have to go on living without you.”
Ryan wasn’t sure but he was fairly certain that the spirit in front of him was crying. “Tomorrow isn’t promised to anyone. I thought I would live forever yet here I am.” She paused and met the broken blue eyes of her former lover. “You’re going to go on living, Ryan. You have too. Maybe you’ll find someone who can mend your heart and if you can’t then you can wake up each morning with the knowledge that when the time comes I will be waiting for you.”
Rea’s image was growing fainter and Ryan reached for her. To his surprise he could actually feel her in his arms. He closed his eyes and breathed in her scent one last time. “I love you, Rea.”
The witch smiled slightly and even though Ryan couldn’t see it he could hear it in her voice. “I love you too, Ryan, and remember that forever isn’t that long at all.” For a heartbeat they held each other tightly then she was gone.
Ryan wiped his eyes and glanced around the shop. Rea was right, before he knew it he would be with her once more. Before he left he grabbed the book of poetry and tucked it into his pocket and headed back outside. It was time to gather the others and go home. He had said goodbye to his love and it was time to move on with his life. As Ryan walked he felt the pain in his chest ease and knew that even though he couldn’t see her, Rea would always be with him and when the time came she would be waiting for him.
And that was more than enough to live for.
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Post by barbt on Jun 19, 2015 9:21:12 GMT -5
I like them both. And oddly enough, considering I wanted Rea to decide to stay with Ryan, I like Part B better.
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Post by HburgEagle44 on Jun 24, 2015 2:57:35 GMT -5
Wow!!! I'm really sorry I stopped reading this story now (finals and work got horrendous ), but I'm glad I had so much to catch up on at once. It was really dark and intense, and I loved how they all worked together, and fought together, and ended strong together. It was a really nice dynamic between all the characters. And though I wanted Rea to choose Ryan, also, I thought Part B really captured the mood of the story and was more realistic, which was cool. As always, fantastic job!!
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